Travelocity’s tips and tricks for saving on summer travel

Even with airfare costs skyrocketing and people spending less, summer travel demand is still looking pretty strong. But travelers this summer are looking for ways to cut costs on summer trips, and Travelocity just published four ideas that will help you shave up to $500 off the cost of a summer vacation.

Interested? I was. Here they are:

• Book an air-and-hotel package. Bundling airfare and accommodations into a package often (but not always! Remember to always compare prices) cuts the total cost.
• Watch what you check: With all the new fees airlines are charging for second bags, it’s extra important to pack light.
• Bring your own food: Travelocity limits this suggestion to bringing your own food on the airplane so you can avoid needing to purchase a stiff, cold sandwich during the flight. But really, this can be a good general savings strategy. If you stay in a vacation rental instead of a hotel, you’ll be able to save by cooking more, and even getting picnic supplies instead of eating lunch at restaurants will save you some money.
• Maximize time: Travelocity suggests that you “Fly out Saturday morning instead of Friday. With the average nightly rate of a U.S. hotel room topping $100 according to Smith Travel Research, consider the early morning flight instead. On your return date, request a late checkout and leave your bags with the front desk to enjoy a full day’s worth of beach-going or sightseeing because you’re taking an evening flight home.”